My bitch is due to whelp in 6 days and her legs are very swollen with fluid.
Does anyone have any ideas how I can perhaps reduce the swelling?She is enormous.

What does your vet suggest? I fear this could be potentially serious.

I echo what the previous poster has said, this could be potentially serious.

Get your bitch to your vet immediately, for their advice.

The last time I heard of this the vet decided on an immediate caesarian, the puppies were perfectly viable at 6 days, this saved the bitches life.

Sorry not trying to scare you but this is in my opinion an emergency.

I don't want to panic you but this could be a sign of high blood pressure and preclampsia as suffered in humans. A friend of mine lost her bitch and litter before whelping after exhibiting these signs, her heart gave out. This was her second litter.

My friend changed her vet, and when the bitches daughter showed similar signs they watched her carefully and performed a C section!

When my bitch was pregnant her back 2 feet were very swollen with fluid and it had just started to move into the front ones when it was time for her to give birth. Before the last pup was out her feet were all back to normal size. I asked my vet and he said it's a bit like some women - they get swollen ankles too. But then he does know my bitch very well and all her history. I would have a quick word with your vet won't do any harm and I think it's good to keep them informed of your bitches pregnancy progress. Do let us know how you get on and good luck with the impending birth.

Margaret

P.s forgot to say my bitch went on to have 9 healthy bouncing pups without any problems,